Elder Thalnor—or rather Lucas under the flawless guise of Thalnor—was escorted by a group of stern-faced guards through the dimly lit corridors of the Malachor Clan's estate, each step echoing in the silence.
As they neared the legendary vault, Lucas could sense the growing discomfort and tension from the guards. Their dislike for Thalnor was palpable, almost radiating from them, but Lucas reveled in it. The corners of his mouth curled ever so slightly as they approached the vault.
At the entrance, the vault keeper stood waiting, his sharp eyes narrowing as he spotted Thalnor. He didn't bother to hide the disdain in his voice. "You're quite fortunate to be allowed access to the vault, Elder," he sneered, the word "elder" rolling off his tongue with thinly veiled mockery.
